ChatGPT's Most Asked Building Questions - Real Answers for Aussie Home Buyers

12th May 2025

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This article breaks down the most commonly asked questions about building a new home in Australia - according to ChatGPT - and pairs them with expert commentary from the Home Building Hub hosts. It’s a practical, no-fluff guide covering deposits, contracts, customisations, site costs and more for first-time home buyers and investors.

ChatGPT's Most Asked Building Questions - Real Answers for Aussie Home Buyers

AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming more common in everyday research, especially when it comes to planning major milestones like building your first home. But how accurate is the advice? In this episode of the Home Building Hub Podcast, hosts Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan put ChatGPT to the test by asking it the most commonly asked questions about building a home in Australia – and offering their own expert insights along the way.

If you're a first-time builder or investor, this is your one-stop Q&A guide to get on the front foot.

Most Common Building Questions (and What You Really Need to Know)

1. How much deposit do I need to build a house?

• Most lenders require 5 - 10% deposit, but if you have 20%, you can avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

• Land developers may accept deposits as low as $5,000 - $10,000 depending on current promotions.

• Builders require an initial $1,500 - $3,000 deposit (preliminary fee) before contract signing, and no more than 5% total before site start.

2. What grants or schemes can I access?

• These vary by state but include First Home Owner Grants, stamp duty concessions, and deposit guarantee schemes.

• A good construction-savvy mortgage broker can help you access everything you're eligible for.

3. Can I include site costs and upgrades in my home loan?

• Yes, in most cases. This can include fencing, landscaping, and blinds if you have quotes.

• These items must be included in your loan application and supported by a valid building contract or separate quotes.

4. Should I buy land first or get a house and land package?

• Do both in tandem. Never commit to land without confirming build compatibility and cost.

• Building consultants often have access to land deals and can put blocks on hold.

5. What is site fall and why does it cost money?

• Site fall is the slope of the land. More slope = more cost due to cut, fill, and retaining.

• Always ask your builder's consultant to obtain engineering plans and provide guidance.

6. Can I build on a sloping block?

• Yes, but it requires extra engineering and a builder experienced with slope builds.

• Ensure you understand driveway gradients and code compliance (e.g. NCC requirements).

7. How do I choose the right builder?

• Look for transparency, fixed pricing, clear inclusions, and strong communication.

• Visiting display homes helps, but make sure you ask about standard inclusions vs upgrades.

8. What is a fixed price contract?

• It locks in costs for most elements, but unforeseen changes (e.g. more site fall than expected) can still impact price.

• Builders can't just increase prices arbitrarily – there must be a justified change.

9. Can I make changes after contract signing?

• Minor changes may be allowed, but structural or major changes after contract often cause delays and extra costs.

• Avoid post-contract changes to reduce errors and speed up your build.

10. Can I customise a floor plan?

• Most builders offer some level of customisation, but less changes = smoother build and fewer errors.

11. What is included in the base price?

• Base price usually includes the standard plan, minimum inclusions, and structure.

• Site costs, facade upgrades, flooring, and landscaping are often extra.

12. What is the difference between a display home and what I get?

• Display homes are fully upgraded. Always ask for a breakdown of what is standard and what is an upgrade.

• Ask: "What do most people spend on this design when they build it?"

13. How long does it take to build a house?

• On average, 6 - 9 months. Small single-storey homes can take as little as 4 - 5 months.

• Your contract will specify a maximum time frame (often longer), with penalties if exceeded.

14. What are the stages of construction?

• Slab

• Frame

• Lockup

• Fixing

• Handover

15. Can I visit the site during construction?

• Yes, but always book appointments. Builders must follow strict safety protocols.

16. Do I need council or developer approval?

• Yes. Builders usually manage this, but you should clarify who is responsible.

• Developers have separate approvals based on estate covenants.

17. What is a BAL rating?

• Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating determines what fire-resistant measures are required.

• Most common is BAL 12.5 in Victoria.

18. What does the builder's warranty cover?

• 7-year structural warranty (mandatory in Victoria).

• Most offer 3 - 12 month defect liability periods as well.

• Lifetime structural warranties are now offered by some builders.

19. Is landscaping or fencing included?

• Generally not in base price unless it's a turnkey package.

20. Is my new home NBN ready?

• Yes, most are. Builder installs the conduit, you activate the service post-handover.

Key Takeaways

• ChatGPT provides solid starter answers, but always seek expert human advice for specifics.

• Use a builder consultant and broker who understand construction and local regulations.

• Don’t rely on base price alone – clarify inclusions, site costs and upgrades.

• Avoid customisations unless necessary to reduce errors and delays.

Listen to the full episode here: ChatGPT's Most Asked Building Questions - Home Building Hub

Glossary of Terms

• LMI (Lenders Mortgage Insurance): A one-off fee charged by lenders if your deposit is under 20%.

• BAL (Bushfire Attack Level): Classification of fire risk for a property.

• Fixed Price Contract: A contract that limits cost increases for certain elements of your build.

• Defect Liability Period: Timeframe after handover where the builder must fix defects.

FAQ

Is it worth using ChatGPT to plan my build? Yes, but only as a guide. Always confirm with professionals like builders, brokers and consultants.

What is the First Home Guarantee? A government scheme allowing eligible first home buyers to buy a home with as little as 5% deposit without paying LMI.

Can I use my own building surveyor? Yes, but using the builder's nominated surveyor often speeds up the process.

Will I get exactly what I see in a display home? Not unless you pay for every upgrade. Always check the standard inclusions.

About the Home Building Hub Podcast

The Home Building Hub podcast, hosted by industry experts Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan, is Australia’s premier resource for new home buyers. With weekly episodes featuring special guests, the podcast provides objective, high-quality insights into the home building process—completely free and without sales pitches. From understanding financing options to navigating the complexities of building a new home, each episode is packed with actionable advice and tips.

Explore more episodes at http://www.homebuildinghub.com.au and join our growing community of informed home buyers.

Disclaimer

Whilst we’re all about providing value to you, this article should not be considered as legal or financial advice. It contains general information only and is based on the content discussed during the podcast episode. This information is relevant to the episode’s release date and may not be applicable at the time of reading. Always seek independent professional advice tailored to your personal situation before making any legal or financial decisions.